Allison Heater, Family Finding & Recruitment Supervisor with Caritas Family Solutions joins the show to discuss the changes in Foster Care, the number of children locally in care or looking for a stable home environment, respite care, and so much more. caritasfamilysolutions.org or call 618-956-9207 to get more details.

 

Ryan Campbell invites you to the 2025 Chamber of Commerce Home & Outdoor Expo to support the YMCA of Jefferson County on February 22nd from 8am to 11am! Tickets on sale now at the Y for $10. Day of tickets purchases will be $12. Thank you so much to Royal Wholesale in Mt. Vernon for their generous donation to help us prepare this breakfast

At the Times Square Mall in Mt. Vernon.

 
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It’s time for Market Days at Veterans Park in Mt. Vernon! Market Days is the second Saturday of May, June, August and September from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join LoLo for our live broadcast this Saturday starting at 9am as we kick off the first weekend of Mt. Vernon Market Days with a radio party. Enjoy indoor and outdoor vendors with crafts, specialty items, flea market finds and more. Get your fair food fix from a variety of food vendors and have fun with a different theme each month! In May we celebrate Mother’s Day! The first 200 ladies to stop by the information tent receive a special gift. Visit enjoymtvernon.com for more information.  

 
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United We Stand: A Weekend of Unity, Culture, and Community Connection

Mark your calendars for August 8th and 9th as United Way of South Central Illinois proudly presents United We Stand, a two-day celebration dedicated to embracing diversity, building bridges of understanding, and strengthening the bonds that tie our community together.

Friday, August 8 – United We Stand

A Meal with Meaning

(Centralia)

Begin the weekend with a moving community gathering at the United We Stand Dinner in Centralia.

 Featured Speakers:

  • Alex Kor, son of Holocaust survivors Mickey and Eva Kor, will share his family’s powerful story and speak about compassion, remembrance, and the importance of standing united in the face of injustice.
  • Dr. Linda & Carl Flowers, respected community leaders and educators, will offer insight on the importance of connection, understanding, and resilience in building a stronger Southern Illinois.

 Dinner Provided By:

Chammies Food for the Soul — enjoy a delicious soul-filled meal that nourishes both body and spirit.

 This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited - ticket required - click here for ticket.

Saturday, August 9 – United We Stand Cultural Festival (Mt. Vernon)

The celebration continues Saturday at the brand-new Commons Park in Mt. Vernon with a full day of global flavors, local artists, music, and cultural exploration.

 Speaker: Alex Kor

Alex will speak with a heartfelt message about healing, resilience, and the power of shared history.

 Featured Artists:

  • Brandy Mount
  • Cortez Hodges
  • Robbie Edwards
  • Janis Steury
  • Vanessa Thomas

 Live Entertainment:

  • Performances by Center Stage
  • Local talents throughout the day.

 Food Vendors:

  • Chammies Food for The Soul – Southern cuisine
  • Joe's Pizza – Local favorite
  • Jee Family – Representing Canada
  • Papa Knocks – Comfort food & soul favorites
  • Crazy Asian Eats – Asian fusion flavors

吝 Family Fun:

A fun and educational way to explore the world!

 Free and open to the public — bring the whole family!

Why It Matters

In a time when connection matters more than ever, United We Stand is an opportunity to share stories, build bridges, and create lasting memories with neighbors near and far. Let’s come together to celebrate who we are — and who we can become — side by side.

 Save the Dates:

  • Friday, August 8 – United We Stand Dinner (Centralia)
  • Saturday, August 9 – United We Stand Cultural Festival (Mt. Vernon Commons)

 
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